A comparative evaluation of postobturation apical seal following intracanal irrigation with maleic acid and EDTA: a dye leakage under vacuum study

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to evaluate the postobturation apical seal following irrigation with 7% maleic acid (MA) or 17% EDTA using dye leakage under vacuum method.Study designSeventy single-rooted human anterior teeth were subjected to root canal instrumentation. Based on the final irrigating solution used, samples were divided into 3 groups: (1) 17% EDTA + 2.5% NaOCl, (2) 7% MA + 2.5% NaOCl, (3) 0.9% saline. Then samples were obturated and placed in 2% rhodamine B dye solution under vacuum pressure for 30 minutes and allowed to remain in the dye for 7 days. Samples were then longitudinally split and examined for dye leakage under stereomicroscope. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test.ResultsMA showed the least apical leakage compared with EDTA and saline. Saline showed maximum leakage.ConclusionFinal irrigation with 7% MA improved the postobturation apical seal compared with 17% EDTA.